Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

Tuberculosis is?

1. A bloodborne disease

2. A sexually transmitted disease

3. An airborne disease

4. Completely eradicated (no longer exists)

The correct answer is: An airborne disease

Tuberculosis (TB) is classified as an airborne disease because it spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings. The bacteria that cause tuberculosis are released into the air in tiny droplets, which can be inhaled by people nearby, leading to new infections. This mode of transmission highlights the importance of airborne precautions in healthcare settings and when caring for individuals who are infected or suspected of having TB. In contrast, bloodborne diseases are transmitted through blood or other bodily fluids, and sexually transmitted diseases are passed primarily through sexual contact. While efforts have been made to control and reduce the incidence of tuberculosis worldwide, it has not been completely eradicated; it still exists and poses a public health challenge in many regions. This context reinforces why identifying tuberculosis as an airborne disease is crucial for understanding its transmission and implementing appropriate preventive measures.